We recently launched BEVA's member of the month campaign to celebrate equine veterinary professionals who deserve a pat on the back. Nominated by friends and colleagues, each winner will be recognised for going above and beyond in their everyday work whether that be to improve patient care or just give their team mates a little boost!
Our first ever winner is Deirdre Baird from McGonnell and Gillatt Horse Vets in Hungerford, Berkshire. Nominated by her colleague for being an out of hours superhero, Deirdre is recognised for always keeping a smile on her face, despite having the worst luck when on call.
So, let's meet Deirdre
Deirdre has been in her current role as an ambulatory vet for the past 10 years at McGonnell and Gillatt, despite originally just being a six month locum role!
Deirdre didn't plan on being an equine vet and says herself that she "fell into it" after 16 months in mixed practice following graduation. Finding herself referring a lot of cases to a hospital in Newmarket, Deirdre's interest in equine practice rose and she found herself wishing she could do more for her patients. So when a hospital internship opportunity came up she grabbed it by the horns and hasn't looked back since.
No such thing as a typical day, but definitely some challenging cases
Like many equine vets, Deirdre struggles to describe a typical day in her ever-changing role, but that's part of the reason she loves it. She's had her fair share of wild, late night cases including one she expected to be a foaling but turned out it was an escapee horse with his knee caved open!
Surviving on call
Nominated for her commitment to the job and never-failing dedication, Deirdre is well-versed in surviving the dreaded late night calls. A decent cup of coffee is her first secret, especially as a reward at the end of a long shift, but she credits a strong will and determination to get through it, as well as the knowledge that it will soon be light and the shift will be over. Plus, she works a four day week with Mondays off which gives her a chance to switch off.
Deirdre's favourite thing about being an equine vet
For Deirdre it's all about job satisfaction, when things go right it's great and being able to help clients and horses work out what's going wrong and be part of the solution is the best feeling. She does also acknowledge the difficulties of the job including the pressure to get it right and live up to clients' expectations but most of the time she enjoys the challenge each day brings. Deirdre also admits she's very lucky to have such a close-knit team at her practice and knowing that there will always be someone who's happy to help out and offer their advice makes a real difference, especially during her tricky out of hours calls!
Words of wisdom for youngsters entering the profession
As a 1998 graduate Deirdre's learnt a lot from her own experiences and her biggest piece of advice for young vets and nurses is to always be compassionate and empathetic, particularly towards your clients’ feelings and their finances. She also stressed the importance of patience and knowing that you don't need to rush the process and you can always get advice if you need it.
Favourite thing about being a BEVA member
Deirdre's favourite element of her membership is the access to CPD both online and in-person. She always looks forward to a CPD course and the opportunity to learn something new but also meet new people and discuss cases together. She also gave a special mention to the BEVApod channel, where you can now listen to our full conversation with her!
Everyone at BEVA would like to say congratulations again to Deirdre for being chosen as our first ever member of the month! If you know someone who you think deserves some recognition then let us know and they could be our next winner! Nominate them today.